Family of Ian Collett call for better support for dementia sufferers

The family of Ian Collett has called for better support for families caring for loved ones who suffer from dementia, on the day they said their final goodbye.

More than 100 people attended his funeral, including police, SES and volunteers who stood alongside his family and friends to pay their respects.

Ian Collett's son told 9NEWS he wants his dad to be remembered for who he was and not his condition.

Grandfather Ian Collett, 65, was farewelled by family and friends today. Picture: Supplied (9news)Ian's family said they want him to be remembered for who is was, and not his condition. Picture: 9NEWS (9news)

"The light and love he used to bring to all friends and family and focus less on the dementia side of things where he slowly slipped away from us,"
Daniel Collett said.

Mr Collets disappearance sparked one of the biggest searches in WA’s history.

His body was on the side of Albany Highway, 33 days after he disappeared from his Canning Vale home.

Police and SES volunteers stood alongside Ian's family and friends to say goodbye. Picture: 9NEWS (9news)Ian's family wants to make sure no other family has to deal with the same tragedy. Picture: 9NEWS (9news)

"On Saturday May 19 Dad left home for his final walk. We don't know what he was thinking or where he was going but something inside him told him to keep walking," Ian's daughter, Naomi Collett, said as she addressed her father's service.

Ian Collett was diagnosed with dementia in 2016, his mental health deteriorating suddenly.

His family wants to make sure no other family has to deal with the same tragedy.

They want better support for families at the time of diagnosis, including care packages for loved ones and better information about GPS trackers for those living with Alzheimers.

His family is calling for better support for families at the time a loved one is diagnosed with dementia. Picture: 9NEWS (9news)

"We want to raise awareness about the importance of GPS trackers because we wouldn't want anyone to go through what we went through and if we can help prevent that, that is what his legacy is about," Daniel said.

The family has set up an online fundraiser for Ian’s legacy and donations will go to Alzheimer’s WA.